Hounslow Man and Van Modern Slavery Statement
This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the approach taken by Hounslow Man and Van to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking within our operations and supply chains. As a responsible removals and transportation business, we are committed to conducting our activities in an ethical and transparent manner and to upholding the rights and dignity of every individual who works with or for us.
Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy
Hounslow Man and Van operates a strict zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, forced labour, human trafficking, debt bondage, servitude and child labour. We do not tolerate any practices that are inconsistent with fundamental human rights, whether within our own business or among our suppliers and contractors.
All directors, managers, employees, agency workers and contractors are expected to comply with this policy at all times. Any breach of this policy will be treated seriously and may lead to disciplinary action, including termination of employment or contract where appropriate.
Our Business and Supply Chains
Hounslow Man and Van provides local and regional man and van, removals and light transport services. Our supply chains include vehicle hire and maintenance providers, fuel suppliers, equipment and packaging providers, and occasional use of subcontracted drivers or labour.
We recognise that modern slavery risks can exist at different stages of these supply chains, particularly where there is subcontracted labour, temporary workers or international sourcing of goods. We are committed to identifying and mitigating these risks through due diligence and ongoing monitoring.
Supplier Standards and Due Diligence
We expect all suppliers and subcontractors to uphold standards that are consistent with our zero-tolerance approach. We require that they operate in compliance with all applicable labour and human rights laws, including those relating to working hours, wages, freedom of movement and the prohibition of forced or child labour.
As part of our due diligence process, we assess new suppliers for their approach to labour standards and ethical practices. Where we consider the risk to be higher, we seek additional assurances about their employment practices, policies and procedures before entering into or renewing business relationships.
Supplier Audits and Monitoring
Hounslow Man and Van conducts periodic audits and reviews of key suppliers and subcontractors to help ensure compliance with our modern slavery expectations. These audits may include requesting information on workforce composition, recruitment practices, use of agencies, and any policies relating to modern slavery and human trafficking.
Where potential concerns are identified, we will engage with the supplier to investigate further and to agree on corrective actions and timeframes. If a supplier fails to address significant issues or to demonstrate genuine commitment to improvement, we reserve the right to suspend or terminate the relationship.
Reporting Concerns and Whistleblowing
We encourage all employees, contractors, suppliers and other stakeholders to speak up if they have any concerns or suspicions about modern slavery or human trafficking linked to our business or supply chains. Concerns may relate to the treatment of workers, recruitment practices, working conditions, or any other behaviour that may indicate exploitation.
Reports can be made in confidence to management or through internal reporting channels within Hounslow Man and Van. We will investigate all reports promptly, sensitively and, where appropriate, confidentially. No person raising a concern in good faith will suffer any form of retaliation or disadvantage as a result of speaking up.
Training and Awareness
We aim to raise awareness of modern slavery risks among our staff, particularly those involved in procurement, supplier management and workforce recruitment. Relevant employees receive information on how to recognise the signs of modern slavery, how to respond to potential issues and how to escalate concerns.
We will continue to improve staff understanding of this topic, adapting our training and guidance as legislation, best practice and our own risk profile evolve.
Continuous Improvement and Annual Review
Hounslow Man and Van is committed to continuously strengthening our approach to preventing modern slavery. We regularly review our processes to identify areas for improvement, including risk assessment, supplier engagement and staff training.
This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed annually by our management team to ensure it remains accurate, effective and aligned with current legislation and best practice. Updates may also be made sooner if there are significant changes in our operations, supply chains or regulatory environment.
By issuing this Statement, Hounslow Man and Van reaffirms its commitment to acting ethically, with integrity and with respect for human rights in all aspects of our business and supply chains.
